STUDENT HANDBOOK Department of Nursing Associate of Science in Nursing (ASN) LPN to ASN
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Department of Nursing
STUDENT HANDBOOK
Associate of Science in Nursing (ASN)
LPN to ASN
Updated 12/2020TABLE OF CONTENTS
INTRODUCTION
Mission, Philosophy & Purpose......................................................................................... 4
Program Descriptions ......................................................................................................... 5
Student Learning Outcome………………………………………………….….……………………………………5
ACADEMIC AND PROFESSIONAL STANDARDS
Admission Criteria
Generic ASN Track Application Process…………………………………………………...……….6
LPN to ASN Track Process……………………………………………………………………………….8
Core Performance Standards............................................................................................. 10
Health Information……………………………………………………………………………….……...…………...13
Retention/Progression ....................................................................................................... 14
Probation/Suspension/Dismissal ....................................................................................... 17
Petition for Exception ....................................................................................................... 18
Readmission after Dismissal………………………………………………………….……………………….…19
LA State Board of Nursing Criteria .................................................................................. 20
EVALUATION OF TEACHING EFFECTIVENESS ............................................................ 20
STANDARDIZED TESTING .................................................................................................... 20
POLICIES AND REGULATIONS
Uniform Policy.................................................................................................................. 21
Clinical Assignments ........................................................................................................ 23
Attendance Policy ............................................................................................................. 23
Clinical Absence Guidelines ............................................................................................. 23
ASN Clinical Practice Guidelines………………………...…………………………………………….….….25
Make-up Test Policy ......................................................................................................... 25
American’s With Disabilities Act (ADA) Accommodations………………………….….…………26
STUDENT RECORDS ............................................................................................................... 27
STUDENT ACTIVITIES
Student Nurses Association .............................................................................................. 27
Student Representation on Faculty Committee................................................................. 28
Student Support Services .................................................................................................. 28
Appendix A-DRUG TESTING POLICY.................................................................................. 29
Appendix B--SOCIAL MEDIA POLICY ................................................................................. 31
Updated 12/2020Appendix C-CHAIN OF COMMAND STATEMENT…………………………….………………….……….33 Appendix D-ONLINE TESTING POLICY………………………………………………………………………35 Updated 12/2020
INTRODUCTION
The Department of Nursing supports and complies with university policies. This handbook
was developed to inform nursing students of LSUA Department of Nursing (DON) policies.
Students enrolled in the Generic ASN and Accelerated LPN to ASN programs are expected to
comply with all policies as outlined in the DON Student Handbook and University policies. The
student handbook is intended to supplement the University catalog to provide guidelines for
students as they progress through the nursing curriculum.
MISSION STATEMENT
The Department of Nursing is dedicated to providing educational opportunities to students with
diverse educational and cultural backgrounds while inspiring life-long learning through scholarly
activities and service. Educational excellence fosters development of safe, professional,
registered nurses that provide quality patient centered care in diverse health care environments.
STATEMENT OF PHILOSOPHY AND PURPOSE
The faculty of the Department of Nursing has established the following mutually agreed upon
statement of philosophy and purpose:
Nursing education is based on the acquisition and application of concepts from nursing, the
humanities, and the biological, social, natural, and behavioral sciences. Learning is an
interactive, goal oriented process that guides a diverse population of students in the acquisition
of knowledge, skills, and attitudes needed to function in the health care setting and society.
The person is a holistic being of uniqueness and innate worth. The person has rights, freedoms,
and responsibilities and exists as an individual, families, or communities. The person has
physical, developmental, emotional, psychosocial, cultural, spiritual, and functional needs that
influence the human experience. The person is a dynamic being who interacts with, influences
and is influenced by a constantly changing environment.
Environment is the set of conditions, circumstances and factors, both internal and external, that
surround, interact with and influence the person. The environment, which is fluid and ever
changing, is in constant dynamic exchange with the person.
Health is a human experience involving the wholeness of the person. It is a state of optimal
functioning and exists on a continuum of wellness and illness.
As an art and a science, nursing is a profession that responds to the holistic needs of individuals, families,
and communities. Nursing is committed to the care of persons on all points on the health continuum.
Nursing is, a partnership with the person involving promotive, restorative, and supportive roles and practice.
Nursing care is accomplished through application of the nursing process and incorporation of professional
standards. (ANA Standards, NLN, QSEN).
4
Updated 12/2020PROGRAM DESCRIPTIONS
Associate of Science in Nursing (ASN)
The DON provides an associate degree in nursing for qualified individuals who wish to provide
direct patient care as members of the health care delivery system. Graduates of the ASN program
are eligible to apply for the National Council Licensure Examination for Registered Nurses.
LPN to ASN
Licensed Practical Nurses pursuing an ASN may elect to enroll in the LPN to ASN articulation
track. The goal of this program track is to facilitate educational mobility from the LPN nursing
level to RN practice at the ASN level. Graduates of the LPN to ASN program are eligible to apply
for the National Council Licensure Examination for Registered Nurses.
Accreditation
All programs offered by the DON at LSUA are approved by the Louisiana State Board of Nursing
(LSBN) 17373 Perkins Rd., Baton Rouge, LA 70810, telephone 225-755-7500 fax 225-755-7564
www.lsbn.state.la.us and accredited by the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing,
Inc. (ACEN) at the following address: 3390 Peachtree Road NE, Suite 1400, Atlanta, Georgia
30326, Phone:404-975-5000, www.acenursing.org
STUDENT LEARNING OUTCOMES
Student Learning Outcomes (SLO) were based on the framework developed by Quality and
Safety Education for Nurses (QSEN) and adopted by LSUA’s Department of Nursing which
include:
Patient-Centered Care
Teamwork and Collaboration
Evidence-based Practice (EBP)
Quality Improvement
Safety
Informatics
Students graduating from the ASN Program will:
1. Utilize clinical judgment and critical thinking within the framework of the nursing process to
provide safe, quality patient-centered care.
2. Evaluate information from knowledge sources to provide safe, quality, patient-centered care.
3. Participate in quality improvement initiatives that improve patient care outcomes.
4. Collaborate with healthcare disciplines to deliver effective nursing care that meets the
dynamic healthcare needs of patients.
5. Incorporate professional standards in the delivery of evidence-based nursing practice.
6. Demonstrate the ability to prioritize, manage, and delegate safe, quality, patient-centered care.
5
Updated 12/2020ADMISSION CRITERIA
Refer to Current LSUA Catalog
Generic ASN Track Application Process
Applications for the first required nursing course, Nursing 1030 are accepted in the fall and
spring semesters. The Department of Nursing accepts a pre-determined number of students for
Spring and Fall admission. If the last and next to last students have the same cumulative GPA,
then both students will be admitted into the nursing program. To be eligible for admission, the
applicant must:
1. Be unconditionally admitted to LSUA, with Nursing declared as a major. (See Catalog for
admission procedures.)
2. Be enrolled in coursework at LSUA the semester of application.
3. Attain a grade of “C” or better in each of the required pre-requisites.
CHEM 1001 or 1201
MATH 1021
ENGL 1001
BIOL 1161 (This course has a 5-year expiration. If the student took the
course greater than 5 years ago, the student must repeat the course).
NURS 1013
Pre-requisites must be completed by the end of the semester of application. Summer coursework
is not accepted when applying for fall admission.
4. Have a cumulative GPA of 2.7 or higher at the time the application is completed. An overall
GPA of 2.7 or higher must be maintained through the end of the semester of application.
Students with a baccalaureate degree or higher may request to have the cumulative GPA used for
selection, or have the GPA calculated based only on general education pre requisite courses:
CHEM 1001 or 1201
MATH 1021
ENGL 1001
BIOL 1161(This course has a 5-year expiration. If the student took the course greater
than 5 years ago, the student must repeat the course).
In keeping with University Policy, all attempts at those courses will be calculated into the GPA.
A student with a previous baccalaureate degree who wishes to have GPA calculated using the
four general education pre requisites MUST have completed these courses at the time of
application and indicated this method of GPA calculation on the application.
First time Freshmen without a GPA may take the 5 pre-requisite courses (ENGL 1001, MATH
1021, CHEM 1001 or 1201, BIOL 1161, and NURS 1013) if they meet the minimum scores for
6
Updated 12/2020Math and English on the ACT or corresponding placement tests for English and Math.
5. Applications for admission to the Generic ASN program are accepted in the Fall and Spring.
Pre-nursing students will be notified of applications deadlines by University email. The nursing
department strongly recommends that students check their LSUA email frequently to remain
informed of department notifications. Information regarding the application process will also be
posted on the department website.
6. Submit all official grades from other universities by May 1 for Fall selection, and by
December 1 for Spring selection. Students may not be enrolled at another university the
semester of application.
7. Submit Louisiana State Board of Nursing (LSBN) Application and complete the
fingerprinting/background process as directed by LSBN. Information regarding LSBN policies
will be provided to applicants during information meetings scheduled by the nursing department.
Students need to check their LSUA email for dates/times of scheduled meetings.
8. Have 9 credit hours of coursework completed at LSUA. Students with a baccalaureate
degree or higher, may waive the 9 required hours at LSUA.
9. Complete the National League of Nursing Pre-Admission Exam (PAX) during the semester of
application. A copy of the scores will be provided by the student to the Department of Nursing
prior to the end of the semester of application. Students are allowed two opportunities to take the
examination. Dates to take the examination will be provided during information meetings and
by email. A minimal composite score of 102 is required. Scores are valid for two years.
10. Bring the following items at time of application:
1. Student ID
2. Copy of unofficial transcript printed from IQ Web/Self-Service
Students who are not accepted the semester of application may re-apply the following semester.
All required paperwork will need to be resubmitted for the student to be considered among all
other applicants using the same selection criteria. Students who are unsuccessful or withdraw
from NURS 1030/1031 but remain eligible to return to the program may be considered for re-
entry if a seat is available (refer to Re-Entry Students). If there are not available seats, the
student may re-apply the following semester and are considered among all other applicants using
the same selection criteria.
Students dismissed from a nursing program at another university will not be allowed to enter the
LSUA nursing program for three years. Students who have been placed on probation, or who
have been dismissed for academic reasons or professional misconduct from another university
are ineligible for admission into the LSUA nursing program.
Nursing course grades and credits from other universities are non-transferable. Students
transferring from another nursing program are required to submit a letter of good standing.
7
Updated 12/2020LPN to ASN Track Application Process
Applications for the LPN to ASN Track are accepted in the Fall and Spring semesters. The
Department of Nursing accepts a pre-determined number of students for Spring and Fall
admission. If the last and next to last students have the same cumulative GPA, then both
students will be admitted into the nursing program. To be eligible for admission, the applicant
must:
1. Be unconditionally admitted to LSUA, with Nursing declared as a major. (See Catalog for
admission procedures.)
2. Be enrolled in coursework at LSUA the semester of application.
3. Attain a grade of “C” or better in each of the required pre-requisites.
CHEM 1001 or 1201
MATH 1021
ENGL 1001
BIOL 1161 (Both BIOL 1161 and BIOL 1162 have a five-year expiration.
If the student took the course greater than 5 years ago, the student must
repeat the course).
NURS 1019
Pre-requisites must be completed by the end of the semester of application. Summer coursework
is not accepted when applying for fall admission.
4. LPNs who earn a score of 76 on the National League of Nursing NACE Exam will receive
credit for NURS 1030 and NURS 1032. Credit for NURS 1031 is earned through successful
completion of a head to toe assessment and medication administration lab practicum. To progress
directly into the second semester clinical nursing courses after successful completion of the
NACE and lab practicums, the LPN must also complete BIOL 1162 and ENG 1002 with a “C” or
higher.
NOTE: The challenge exam and skills practicum MUST be completed by the completion of
NURS 1019. If not completed by the completion of NURS 1019, then the student will be
required to take NURS 1030/1031/1032.
5. Have a cumulative GPA of 2.7 or higher at the time the application is completed. An overall
GPA of 2.7 or higher must be maintained through the end of the semester of application.
Students with a baccalaureate degree or higher may request to have the cumulative GPA used for
selection, or have the GPA calculated based only on core general education courses:
CHEM 1001 or 1201
MATH 1021
ENGL 1001
BIOL 1161(This course has a five-year expiration. If the student took the course
8
Updated 12/2020greater than five years ago, the student must repeat the course).
If the applicant chooses to use only core nursing courses, this must be indicated on the
application. In keeping with University Policy all attempts at those courses will be calculated
into the GPA. A student with a previous baccalaureate degree who wishes to have GPA
calculated using the four general education pre- requisites MUST have completed these courses
at the time of application and indicated this method of GPA calculation on the application.
6. Applications for admission to the LPN-ASN track are accepted in the Fall and Spring. Pre-
LPN students will be notified of applications deadlines by University email. The nursing
department strongly recommends that students check their LSUA email frequently to remain
informed of department notifications. Information regarding the application process will also be
posted on the department website.
7. Submit all official grades from other universities by May 1 for Fall selection, and by
December 1 for Spring selection. Students may not be enrolled at another university the
semester of application.
8. Submit Louisiana State Board of Nursing (LSBN) Application and complete the
fingerprinting/background process as directed by LSBN. Information regarding LSBN policies
will be provided to applicants during information meetings scheduled by the nursing department.
Students need to check their LSUA email for dates/times of scheduled meetings.
9. Have nine credit hours of coursework completed at LSUA. Students with a baccalaureate
degree or higher, may waive the nine required hours at LSUA.
10. Bring the following items at time of application:
1. Student ID
2. Copy of unofficial transcript printed from IQ Web/Self-Service
3. Verification of current LPN license
4. Evidence of current American Heart Association CPR Health Care
Provider course completion
Students who are not accepted the semester of application may re-apply the following semester,
must complete all required paperwork again, and will be considered among all other applicants
using the same selection criteria. Students, who are unsuccessful or withdraw from NURS 1019
but remain eligible to return to the program, also may re-apply the following semester and are
considered among all other applicants using the same selection criteria.
LPNs who have had disciplinary action against their license shall petition the LSBN for review
and action regarding approval to enter the clinical nursing practice area.
9
Updated 12/2020Students dismissed from a nursing program at another university will not be allowed to enter the
LSUA nursing program for three years. Students who have been placed on probation, or who
have been dismissed for academic reasons or professional misconduct from another university
are ineligible for admission into the LSUA nursing program.
Nursing course grades and credits from other universities are non-transferable. Students
transferring from another nursing program are required to submit a letter of good standing.
Re-Entry Students: Criteria for Selection in Subsequent Nursing Courses
If a student's progression in nursing courses is interrupted for any reason, the student must
complete a re-entry form. Students should submit the application for re-entry at the time of
withdrawal or failure in a nursing course.
Course placement of students meeting criteria for re-enrollment will vary and may be altered
according to resources available each term/semester. If the number of students applying for re-
entry exceeds the number of openings, re-entry applicants with the highest overall GPA will
be given preference.
A student whose enrollment is interrupted for two consecutive regular semesters must complete
any changed curriculum requirements in effect at the time of re-enrollment. A student whose
enrollment in nursing courses is interrupted for a period of three years must repeat all required
courses titled Nursing.
CORE PERFORMANCE STANDARDS FOR
ADMISSION AND PROGRESSION
It is the policy of LSUA Department of Nursing not to discriminate and to render all services
without regard to race, color, religion, national origin, age, sex, veteran status, political
affiliation, disabilities, or in accordance with EWE 92-7 because of an individual's sexual
orientation. Thus, in compliance with the American with Disabilities Act of 1990, all individuals
regardless of disability are afforded equal opportunity for admission and to achieve the same
results for progression as specified in course objectives as that afforded others. For individuals
with disabilities, reasonable and acceptable modifications to all parties are made to policies,
practices, or procedures, when such modifications are necessary to measure achievement of
course objectives; unless doing so would fundamentally alter course objectives and/or client
safety. Modifications are offered at no additional charge. The student reserves the right to
refuse these accommodations. Students with documented disabilities who have requested
modifications to policies, practices, or procedures in the Department of Nursing may file a
grievance if they believe that they did not receive appropriate accommodations or services, or if
they believe they have been treated in a discriminatory manner, in accordance with LSUA Policy
Statement 207. Disability Services can be contacted at 318-427-0137 or
disabilityservices@lsua.edu
10
Updated 12/2020Necessary Skills Standard Examples of Activities (Not
All Inclusive)
Critical Thinking Critical thinking ability Identify cause-effect
sufficient for clinical relationships in clinical
judgment and clinical situations, develop nursing
reasoning. care plans accordingly,
evaluation of the effectiveness
of nursing interventions.
Interpersonal Communication Interpersonal communication Establish and maintain rapport
Professional Relationships skills and abilities sufficient with patients, colleagues, and
to interact with individuals, other healthcare providers.
families, and communities
from a variety of social, Capacity to engage in
emotional, cultural, and successful conflict resolution
intellectual backgrounds, in
verbal and written forms Peer accountability
Explain treatments, provide
health teaching, document and
interpret nursing actions and
patient responses.
Evaluate verbal and written
instruction and orders,
laboratory or radiographic
orders, care plans, and
treatments.
Assess patient’s current status
and medical/surgical health
history, and communicate
accordingly through
appropriate mechanisms, such
as client record, nursing care
plan, and admission data
sheet.
11
Updated 12/2020Necessary Skills Standard Examples of Activities (Not
All Inclusive)
Mobility Physical abilities sufficient to Move freely and efficiently in
move from room to room and patient’s rooms, work spaces,
maneuver in small spaces and treatment areas.
Administer treatments and
cardiopulmonary procedures
including rescue procedures.
Lift, move, position, and
transport patients without
causing injury, undue pain, or
discomfort to the patient, or
oneself.
Transport and manipulate all
fixed and mobile equipment in
a timely, cautious, and safe
manner.
Motor Skills Gross and fine motor abilities Calibrate and manipulate
sufficient to provide safe and equipment necessary to
effective nursing care provide treatments and
medications for patient care.
Ability to safely position
patients
Hearing Auditory ability sufficient to Hear monitor alarms,
monitor and assess patient’s emergency signals,
health needs ausculatory sounds, or cries
for help.
Visual Visual ability sufficient for Sufficient vision for
observation and assessment inspection and assessment of
necessary in nursing care clients, monitoring client
activities/ responses in
relation to safety needs, and
reading all documentation and
monitoring devices.
Tactile Tactile ability sufficient for Perform palpation, functions
physical assessment of physical examination, and
therapeutic interventions, such
as inserting a catheter, or
12
Updated 12/2020Necessary Skills Standard Examples of Activities (Not
All Inclusive)
initiating an IV.
Behavioral Possess and exhibit sufficient Demonstrate caring and
psychological equilibrium, empathy, while functioning
motivation, and flexibility to with increasing workloads,
function in new and stressful responsibilities, and
environments assignments.
Adopted from Southern Regional Education Board (2020).
(Note addition by LSUA Nursing Faculty of "Maintain Patient Safety".)
HEALTH INFORMATION
Clinical nursing students are responsible for ensuring health information and CPR
requirements are current. Upon admission students will receive information regarding
establishing an account with Castle Branch and submitting all required documents. It is the
responsibility of the student to review this information every semester and update documents.
All required documents and completed health forms must be completed and submitted prior to
NURS 1030 for generic ASN students and during the semester of NURS 1019 for LPN to ASN
students:
History and physical form must be completed by both the student and their primary
care provider and submitted to Castle Branch by designated due date.
Students who need accommodations related to health conditions must meet with
the Student Services (see Americans with Disabilities Act listed further in this
handbook).
Students must provide proof of negative TB status the first clinical semester.
Annually, thereafter, students must have a symptoms screening checklist
completed and signed. Should the student be exposed to someone with active TB
or have a positive screening, the student will be required to follow up with primary
healthcare provider for further recommendations. Proof of negative TB status will
be required to enter or continue in the clinical setting.
Students are required to have the following immunizations: Hepatitis B, MMR,
and Varicella. If student does not have these vaccinations or has declined to
receive, titers are REQUIRED to enter clinical courses. If a student refuses the
13
Updated 12/2020annual influenza vaccine, facility protocol must be followed during assigned
clinical rotation.
Additional vaccinations may be required per clinical agency policy
Insurance: Students sustaining injury or requiring health care during clinical or
laboratory experiences will be individually responsible for the cost of their health
care. At the discretion of the student, health insurance can be purchased by the
individual student through various companies.
Additional information may be requested to ensure compliance with the
policies and procedures of the clinical agency.
BLS for Health Care Provider Course: Students must also submit evidence of
satisfactory completion of the American Heart Association BLS for Health Care Provider
Course upon admission into the Nursing Program and must maintain their BLS Health
Care Provider status. Copies of American Heart Association Cards will be maintained in
the student’s records and are good for two years. Failure to do so will result in the
student’s dismissal from the course until documentation is provided.
RETENTION & PROGRESSION
To satisfactorily progress in all nursing programs a student must:
1. Maintain an overall grade point average of 2.0 or higher.
2. Be enrolled in the nursing theory component and the accompanying
clinical/lab/practicum component of the given nursing course. (Example: Nursing 1030,
1031, and 1032 are mandatory co-requisites and must be successfully completed together
to receive credit for the course and to continue progression in the nursing curriculum.
Students cannot Withdraw from 1030/1031 and remain in 1032.) See table below for
additional examples.
14
Updated 12/2020If Re-enter the
LSUA DON
Withdrawal Eligible for Student next available
Progression
Option Re-entry? Responsibility semester
Policy
Notify course
faculty
Yes, on space Complete Re-entry Must pass all
1030/1031 Counts as 1 available basis courses
form and submit to
& 1032* “W” the next administrative successfully in
semester assistant in order to progress.
Nursing Office.
Notify course
1030/1031 – Yes, on space
faculty
Counts as 1 Complete Re-entry Must pass 1032 on
Pass available basis
form and submit to 2nd attempt in
1032 – “W” “W” the next
administrative order to progress.
semester
only assistant in
Nursing Office.
NOTE: Students should consult with assigned advisor before withdrawing from any course.
EXCEPTION: LPN to ASN students who are successful in one component of the placement
challenge exam/skills practicum and not the other, will only take the component in which they
were unsuccessful. (Example: If the LPN successfully passes the challenge exam but fails the
skills practicum, the LPN will only be required to take NURS 1031.)
3. Achieve a grade of “C” or higher in the theory component of each required nursing
course. The following grading scale is used by the Department of Nursing:
100 – 93 A
92 – 85 B
84 – 77 C
76 – 65 D
64 – 00 F
4. Achieve a “P” (Pass) grade in the clinical/lab/practicum component. Clinical skills reflect
the student’s comprehension and application of knowledge of nursing as it applies to safe,
therapeutic nursing care for patients in various clinical settings.
5. Withdrawing (“W”) or dropping a required nursing course that has a mandatory co-
requisite means that the student is withdrawing or dropping from both components of the
course (theory and clinical/lab). When the student withdraws or drops a required course it
should be noted that a position in the class of choice may NOT be available. Students
15
Updated 12/2020who wish to be considered for re-enrollment must complete a re-entry form. (See
guidelines above)
6. All students enrolled in the ASN program must successfully pass a dosage calculation
exam with a grade of 90% or higher in each clinical course with the exception of NURS
1031 Clinical Nursing 1. The exam may be repeated once. If the student is unable to
achieve 90% or higher on the second dosage calculation exam, the student must withdraw
from the course for that semester. Prior to re-enrolling in the nursing course, the student
must demonstrate remediation through one of the following methods: successful
completion of Nursing 1002 or appropriate remediation determined by the course
instructor. Upon re-entering the nursing course, the student must pass the dosage
calculation exam at 90% or higher.
7. Progression in the nursing program reflects the student’s commitment to the profession
of nursing and demonstrates professional responsibility. The Department of Nursing
expects students to act in a manner which reflects the professionalism of the nursing
profession; therefore, the Department of Nursing follows the Code of Ethics set forth by
the American Nurses Association.
ANA Code of Ethics for Nurses
1) The nurse, in all professional relationships, practices with compassion and respect for the
inherent dignity, worth and uniqueness of every individual, unrestricted by considerations
of social or economic status, personal attributes, or the nature of health problems.
2) The nurse’s primary commitment is to the patient, whether an individual, family, group
or community.
3) The nurse promotes, advocates for, and strives to protect the health, safety and rights of
the patient.
4) The nurse is responsible and accountable for individual nursing practice and determines
the appropriate delegation of tasks consistent with the nurse’s obligation to provide
optimum patient care.
5) The nurse owes the same duties to self as to others, including the responsibility to
preserve integrity and safety, to maintain competence, and to continue personal and
professional growth.
6) The nurse participates in establishing, maintaining, improving health care environments
and conditions of employment conducive to the provision of quality health care and
consistent with the values of the profession through individual and collective action.
7) The nurse participates in the advancement of the profession through contributions to
practice, education, administration and knowledge development.
8) The nurse collaborates with other health professionals and the public in promoting
community, national and international efforts to meet health needs.
9) The profession of nursing, as represented by associations and their members, is
responsible for articulating nursing values, for maintaining the integrity of the profession
and its practice, and for shaping social policy.
American Nurses Association, Code of Ethics for Nurses with Interpretive Statements, Washington, D.C.: American Nurses Publishing, 2001.
16
Updated 12/2020PROBATION/SUSPENSION/DISMISSAL
Probation: A student may be placed on probation and is subject to dismissal when failing
to comply with certain standards. Probation in the Department of Nursing serves as notice
to the student that a violation of standards has been committed when:
a. Professional Probation: lack of professional compatibility is demonstrated. Such
status is a warning that an additional violation will result in immediate dismissal from
the Department of Nursing. Professional compatibility is demonstrated by
consistently meeting standards described in the Louisiana Nursing Practice Act, the
American Nurses Association Code of Ethics, LSUA’s Student Code of Conduct, and
LSUA’s Department of Nursing’s Policies. (The Louisiana Nurse Practice Act is
available in the James C. Bolton Library or from the Louisiana State Board of
Nursing at http://www.lsbn.state.la.us/
b. Academic Probation: A grade of “W”, “D”, “F”, or “NC” is earned in any required
Nursing course, including non-clinical nursing courses.
Suspension: A student who is arrested, charged with, convicted of, pled guilty or no contest
to, or sentenced for any criminal offense in any state or foreign country will be
immediately suspended from any nursing course. Suspension will remain in effect until a
decision is made by the Louisiana State Board of Nursing.
Dismissal: A student found guilty of any of the following will be dismissed from the
Department of Nursing and subject to University disciplinary procedures:
Academic cheating
Plagiarism
Unauthorized possession of examinations
Falsification of patient and/or agency records
Falsification of any LSUA documents
Illegal possession, sale, use, or distribution of drugs
Illegal possession of weapons
Theft
Violation of Patient Confidentiality (HIPAA)
Positive Drug Screen
Any other activity incompatible with professional behaviors delineated in the Nurse
Practice Act.
A student will be dismissed from the Department of Nursing when:
a. Earning a grade of "W", "D", "F", or “NC” in a required nursing course after enrolling* for
the second time. (Example 1: Dropping NURS 1030 after the first test regardless of
whether the student earns a “W” then earning a “D”, “F”, “W”, or “NC” in Nursing 1030 in
the subsequent semester. Example 2: Earning a “D”, “F”, “W”, or “NC” in Nursing 1030
then earning a second “D”, “F”, “W”, or “NC” in Nursing 1030 when it is re-taken.)
17
Updated 12/2020b. Earning two (2) grades of "D" or "F" in any required nursing courses. [Example: Earning a
“D” or “F” in Nursing 1030, then after passing Nursing 1030, earning a “D” or “F” in
Nursing 1040 (or any other combination of nursing courses).]
c. Earning two (2) grades of "W" in any required nursing courses. [Example: Earning a “W” in
Nursing 1030, then after passing Nursing 1030, earning a “W” in Nursing 1040 (or any other
combination of nursing courses).]
d. Continuing to demonstrate lack of professional compatibility while on professional
probation.
e. Having been denied approval for entry or continuance by the Louisiana State Board of
Nursing.
f. Failing to declare criminal charges/arrests/convictions on admission into nursing, or
during enrollment in the nursing program. (It is the student’s responsibility to notify the
Department of Nursing within seven (7) days of the occurrence.)
* “Enroll” refers to a student who registers for credit, attends class, and sits for at least one
examination.
PETITION FOR EXCEPTION
Petitions for Exception: Exceptions to any of the policies may be considered on an
individual basis by the faculty of the Department of Nursing. Written petitions for
exceptions are made to the Department of Nursing Academic and Professional Standards
Committee for consideration. This committee’s recommendations will be presented to the
full faculty for a final decision, and the student will then be notified by written notice.
Decisions made regarding the student petition will not be discussed by phone. The
committee will review petitions for exception two times a year prior to the beginning of
each semester. Additional meetings will not be called for the purpose of reviewing a
student petition. Students who petition for exception to Department of Nursing Policy
ARE NOT GUARANTEED that the exception will be granted. If the exception is
granted and the student is allowed to return, the student MUST then successfully
complete remaining required nursing courses. Student will NOT be allowed to withdraw
from any subsequent required nursing courses. Additional failure of any subsequent
required nursing course will result in dismissal from the nursing program for three years
with no eligibility for further petition for exception.
NOTE: Deadline to file for a petition for exception is 4 weeks from the date of
notification of dismissal. Petitions will not be accepted after that time.
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Updated 12/2020To petition the Academic and Professional Standards Committee, the student should write a formal
letter addressed to the committee. The letter should be mailed to:
LSUA
Department of Nursing
Academic and Professional Standards Committee
8100 Hwy 71 S
Alexandria, La. 71302
In the letter, students must include contact information for follow-up: mailing address, email address
and phone number with alternate number, extenuating circumstances leading to the request for
appeal, and plans for success in future courses. Official documentation supporting the stated
extenuating circumstances (i.e., death certificates, letters from doctors or attorneys, records from
hospitals, etc.) must be mailed directly from the official agency to the Department of Nursing at the
address listed above. Scanned, emailed, or hand-carried documents will not be accepted. Students
should also submit a current unofficial transcript, if possible. All documentation must be received by
the Academic and Professional Standards Committee within 4 weeks of date of notification of
dismissal. The committee will NOT review documents received after that time. A student appeal will
only be entertained by the Academic Standards Committee one time on the same issue. The Nursing
faculty’s final decision on the appeal will stand.
NOTE: If supporting documentation of the extenuating circumstance is not received, the Academic
and Standards Committee will NOT review the appeal. It is the student’s responsibility to ensure
ALL documentation is received by the Academic and Professional Standards Committee.
READMISSION AFTER DISMISSAL
Students who are dismissed from the program for academic reasons will have the opportunity to
reapply for entry into the nursing program after three (3) years. The applicant will be processed
along with all other applicants during the selection process; if selected the applicant is required
to take all nursing courses again, starting with NURS 1030 for generic ASN students and NURS
1019 for LPN to ASN students. Students re-entering the program after dismissal must meet the
same academic requirements as other students applying for initial entry into either nursing
program. Students re-entering the program are not given preference in selection.
Students who have been dismissed from the ASN Program for academic reasons may wish to
pursue a career as a Licensed Practical Nurse. Upon receipt of LPN licensure, the student may
apply to enter the Accelerated LPN to ASN Program. In doing so, the three year waiting period
for re-entry is waived. (See admission requirements for the LPN to ASN program.)
19
Updated 12/2020LOUISIANA STATE BOARD OF NURSING CRITERIA
Louisiana State Board of Nursing’s Criteria for Enrollment in a Clinical Nursing
Course or For Licensure as a Registered Nurse.
Generic ASN & LPN to ASN Tracks
The Nurse Practice Act requires that students who enroll in a clinical nursing course, or
become licensed as a registered nurse by examination, follow guidelines as established by the
Louisiana State Board of Nursing (LSBN). Students must report the following to the LSBN
and petition for approval to practice as students of nursing in Louisiana prior to enrollment in
a clinical nursing course:
1. any disciplinary action by any licensing/certifying board in any state,
2. any arrest, criminal charge, or conviction,
3. any addiction or impairment which may affect their ability to practice nursing with
reasonable skill and safety.
Failure to disclose the required information constitutes falsification of documents and will result
in denial of licensure. The Louisiana State Board of Nursing will conduct a criminal background
check on all applicants for licensure as a registered nurse in Louisiana. Additional information
regarding Disciplinary proceedings can be found at
http://www.lsbn.state.la.us/Discipline,Complaints,MonitoringRNP.aspx
EVALUATION OF TEACHING EFFECTIVENESS
Students complete structured evaluation of the faculty, the course, and clinical facilities upon
completion of each individual nursing course. These tools may demonstrate strength and/or
improvement opportunities in the course content, instructional materials, textbooks, faculty
presentation, and clinical facilities. For these reasons, care and attention should be given to
objectively evaluate each course, faculty member, and clinical facility.
STANDARDIZED EXAMINATIONS FOR ASN STUDENTS
Standardized examinations are administered to students prior to admission into the nursing
program, to determine course credit for LPN - ASN, and upon completion of the final clinical
nursing course.
LPN-ASN students will have the opportunity to challenge NURS 1030/1032 and NURS 1031. If
the student completes the challenge exam with a 76% or higher, credit will be given for NURS
1030/1032. If the student scores below a 76%, then the student is required to successfully
complete NURS 1019 and enroll in NURS 1030/1032 the following semester. If the LPN does
not complete NURS 1019 successfully, then re-enrollment in NURS 1019 is required. LPN-ASN
students will also have the opportunity to challenge NURS 1031 by successful completion of the
skills practicum. If the student successfully completes the skills practicum by the second
20
Updated 12/2020attempt, credit is given for NURS 1031. If the student is not successful by the second attempt,
the student must successfully complete NURS 1019 and enroll in NURS 1031 the following
semester. If the student scores 76% or above on the challenge exam and successfully completes
the skills practicum, the student will enroll in NURS 1040/1041/1042 the following semester.
NOTE: The student will only enroll in the component in which was unsuccessful. For
example, if the student passes the challenge exam and fails the skills practicum, the student
will be given credit for NURS 1030/1032 but will enroll in NURS 1031 the following
semester.
NOTE: The challenge exam and skills practicum MUST be completed by the completion of
NURS 1019. If not completed by the completion of NURS 1019, then the student will be
required to take NURS 1030/1031/1032.
POLICIES AND REGULATIONS
UNIFORM POLICY
ASN & LPN to ASN
The appearance and behavior of the student affects the image and prestige of the university and the
nursing program. Therefore, the Department of Nursing endorses the following policy. Students are to
adhere to good personal grooming and hygiene practices including being free of tobacco smoke odor.
Students are to refrain from smoking, vaping, or using smokeless tobacco during clinical/class time and
while in uniform. The instructor has the responsibility to enforce the policy. A student may be dismissed
from the clinical area when not in compliance with the uniform policy, and will receive an unsatisfactory
clinical grade for that experience.
Identification:
A current LSUA picture identification badge must be worn in all clinical areas. The student should obtain
the LSUA picture identification badge upon enrollment into the University.
Hosiery:
Female students are to wear white hosiery with dress or skirt uniforms, and wear white hosiery or solid
white socks with pantsuits. Male students are to wear solid white socks. Socks are to cover the ankle.
Hair:
Students are to wear conservative hair styles which are clean, neat, and kept off the collar. The hair must
not fall forward while bending. Hair must remain up until the uniform is removed. A conservative
barrette or flat hair clip of the same color as the hair may be worn to secure the hair off the collar. No
scrunchies, bows, or other hair ornaments will be permitted. Student hair must be a naturally occurring
color, no faddish coloring will be permitted. A neat, clean, well-maintained beard or moustache may be
worn.
Hands and Nails:
Hands and nails are to be clean and free of stains. Fingernails are to be short and should not be visible
over the fingertips when the fingers are at eye level. Nails are to be polish free. Artificial fingernails
and gel nail polishes are not allowed.
21
Updated 12/2020Jewelry:
The uniform must be worn without jewelry other than a watch with a second hand that remains visible for
at least one minute. Wedding bands without stones are allowed. Earrings are not permitted. Faddish
styles of ear, nose, oral, face, or other body ornaments are not permitted in clinical.
Makeup:
Moderate amounts of makeup appropriate to daytime wear may be worn. Tattoos must be covered at all
times while in uniform. Artificial eyelashes, eyelash extensions or removable/visible products to the face
are NOT allowed. Prescription eyeglasses or clear or natural colored contact lenses are permissible.
Perfume:
Students may not wear perfume, cologne, essential oils, CBD oil, or other scented body products with the
uniform.
Supplies:
Bandage scissors, a black ballpoint pen, a penlight and a stethoscope are required parts of the uniform.
It is at the discretion of the course instructor to allow cell phones to be used for learning purposes only
in the clinical setting. Cell phones and other electronic devices are prohibited while gathering clinical
assignment information and are strictly prohibited in all patient care areas. Students are not allowed to
take pictures of any sort while obtaining clinical information and/or caring for patients.
Students not conforming to uniform policy will be required to leave the clinical setting and will
count as a missed clinical day.
Dress Code for Clinical Nursing Students
Students are required to wear Barco styled grape colored uniforms. The uniform, selected from the
Uniform Selection Guideline must be clean, neat and well pressed. The uniform top and bottom must fit
appropriately and cover all undergarments. Female students may wear a uniform skirt bottom or pants.
The length of dress/skirt uniform must be no shorter than mid-knee. Pant length must extend below the
ankle. Tucking the shirt in the skirt or pants is not allowed. The LSUA insignia must be permanently
attached to the left upper sleeve of the uniform and optional lab coat and jacket.
Note: Students may choose to wear a plain long sleeve white T-shirt style shirt under the uniform top if
desired.
NOTE: If student chooses to wear the white lab coat, the White Lab Coat is to be worn ONLY
while obtaining clinical assignments, upon entering the clinical facility, and upon exiting the clinical
facility. The White Lab Coat is NOT to be worn during direct patient care.
In rotations to special clinical units, such as surgery, the student will wear the school uniform to and from
the hospital. Scrub suits for special rotations will be provided by the clinical agencies and will not be
taken out of the hospital.
22
Updated 12/2020UNIFORM SELECTION GUIDELINES:
I. LADIES WEAR II. MENS WEAR
#8726 Landau Lab Coat (White)-optional #3166 Landau Lab Coat (White)-optional
#SK101 Barco Top (Grape) #SK1020 Barco Top (Grape)
#SK202 Barco Pant (Grape) #SK0215 Barco Pant (Grape)
#SK401 Barco Jacket (Grape)-optional #SK0408 Jacket (Grape)-optional
SKIRT OPTION with matching top/jacket:
#701 Winks Pull on Cargo Skirt
#101 Winks V-Neck Top
#800 Winks Snap Front Jacket-optional
NOTE: If student chooses to wear the optional grape jacket, the jacket may be worn during direct
patient care.
NOTE: Students who are pregnant, please check with course instructor for proper attire OR may wear
approved maternity uniform.
Shoes:
Solid white, or neutral colored (black, brown, or gray) shoes that completely enclose the foot are to be
worn. Open toe/heel or clogs are not acceptable. A small product identification label on the shoe is
acceptable. The shoe must have a white or gray sole. They are to be in good repair, polished, and stain
free. If shoes require shoelaces, the laces must be clean and match the shoe colors.
CLINICAL ASSIGNMENTS
Obtaining Clinical Assignments: Appropriate dates and times for obtaining assignments will be
announced by the course faculty. Dates/times for obtaining clinical assignments may be outside
of the scheduled clinical day/time. Students may be required to attend clinical activities outside
of scheduled clinical day/time. Every effort will be made to give student advanced notice.
Either white or grape lab coat with the student’s identification badge may be worn over the
uniform to hospital to obtain clinical assignments. Any clothing/shoes other than listed in
the uniform policy are not permitted while obtaining clinical assignments.
ATTENDANCE POLICY
Class Attendance Policy:
The Department of Nursing adheres to the University’s Attendance Policy (PS 206). To derive
optimum benefits from a course, the student must attend class regularly. Absences from class for
any reason avoidable or unavoidable results in a loss of knowledge for the student. When
excessive, it may be a direct cause for low achievement, or even failure. Because of the
importance of class attendance to the student's achievement, the following policy has been
adopted:
23
Updated 12/2020STEP 1: WARNING - ATTENDANCE VIOLATIONS
Students are expected to attend all classes. When a student has been absent for the
equivalent of one week, the teacher completes a WARNING-ATTENDANCE
VIOLATION form which specifies such absences and warns the student that further
absences can seriously jeopardize the student's performance in class and will result in the
student's being dropped from the course for non-attendance. This form is initiated by the
instructor and forwarded to the student's Department Chair, who notifies the student of
the teacher's action by mailing or giving the warning to the student.
An attendance violation will be administered after two instances of being tardy. Tardiness
is defined as arriving up to 15 minutes late for class. Arrival to class more than 15
minutes late will constitute an absence.
STEP 2: DROP FOR NON-ATTENDANCE
A student may be dropped for non-attendance from a class at any time prior to the
deadline for dropping courses or resigning from the University as specified in the
Academic Calendar if (1) the student fails to heed the WARNING - ATTENDANCE
VIOLATIONS notice received per STEP 1; and (2) if the student accumulated further
absences which, in the combined judgment of both the student's teacher and the teacher's
Department Chair, prevent the student's passing the course. A DROP FOR NON-
ATTENDANCE form which will result in a grade of "W" being recorded for the class on
the student's permanent academic ledger may be initiated by the teacher and submitted to
the student's Department Chair, who will sign the form and circulate copies to the student
and the Office of Admissions and Records who will drop the student's name from the
official class roster.
NOTE: Dropping a student from a class for non-attendance with a "W" is an option of the
teacher and not mandatory. If this option is not elected by the teacher, the student is
subject to receiving an "F" in the class at the end of the semester.
STEP 3: STUDENT OPTIONS
Prior to the deadline for dropping courses or resigning from the University as specified in
the Academic Calendar, a student who has been dropped for non-attendance may defend
his/her delinquent attendance to the teacher, declare a firm intention to attend all
remaining classes, and request reinstatement in the class. If reinstatement appears
justified in the combined judgment of the teacher and the teacher's Department Chair, the
teacher will indicate the requested reinstatement at the top of the initial DROP FOR
NON- ATTENDANCE form retained by the student's Department Chair.
The Department Chair will circulate copies of the student’s request for reinstatement to the
student and the Office of Admissions and Records, who will reflect the student's actual
accomplishment since students are always responsible for assignments missed. After the deadline
for dropping courses or resigning from the University as specified in the Academic Calendar: (1)
A student who remains officially enrolled in a class, including a student who has received a
WARNING - ATTENDANCE VIOLATIONS notice but who has not yet been officially
dropped for non-attendance from the class, must complete the class or receive an "F" ("NC" if
the action involves a developmental education class) at the end of the semester. (2) A student
24
Updated 12/2020who has been dropped for nonattendance may not, at this point, request reinstatement in the
class.
CLINICAL ABSENCE GUIDELINES
Since the clinical nursing experience is a major part of the nursing curriculum, attendance and
participation are mandatory. Any student with repetitive tardiness and/or absences is in academic
jeopardy. When clinical absences are absolutely necessary the student must:
1. Call the clinical unit at least 30 minutes before scheduled clinical time and leave a message
for the instructor. If unable to reach the unit, contact the instructor as instructed.
2. Realize that after one week of clinical absence, an attendance warning violation will be
issued.
3. Realize that the student will be dropped from the course with an additional one week of
clinical absence following an attendance warning.
4. An attendance violation will be administered after one instance of being tardy. Tardiness is
defined as arriving after the designated time of arrival as directed by clinical faculty up to 15
minutes. Arrival to clinical later than 15 minutes will constitute an absence. If a student is
tardy for unforeseen circumstances, the student must notify the clinical faculty immediately
The clinical absence will then be at the discretion of the clinical faculty,
5. If a clinical day is missed, alternate assignments are at discretion of faculty.
ASN CLINICAL PRACTICE GUIDELINES
Students are expected to follow patient safety guidelines at all times within the clinical setting.
Failure to follow patient safety will result in immediate dismissal from the clinical setting. The
faculty of the Department of Nursing has adopted the following set of guidelines to which
students must adhere during clinical experiences.
Students are prohibited from performing the following activities:
1. Witnessing informed consents
2. Accessing narcotics without supervision
3. Taking verbal or telephone orders from a health care provider.
4. Placing a patient in seclusion or initiating any form of restraints.
5. Removing arterial sheaths and epidural catheters
Students may not perform independently* the following activities:
1. Administering IV chemotherapy medications
2. Administering blood or blood products
3. Administering emergency medications or applying the defibrillator in a code situation.
25
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